On June 14, 2016, at the 5th Quebec Wind Energy Industry Gala organized by the TechnoCentre éolien as part of the 10th Quebec Wind Energy Conference, the Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n (MU) Wind Project received the Excellence in Human Resources Award.

Developed through a 50-50 partnership between the three Mi’gmaq communities of Quebec and Innergex, MU is the first wind farm developed jointly with First Nations in the Gaspé Peninsula. A real opportunity for the region, this project represents a platform for prosperity and its legacy will live on for future generations. Many efforts were made to maximize employment opportunities for the Mi’gmaq and local workers, such as participation in job fairs, training and negotiating agreements with the Commission de la construction du Québec to recognize the hours worked by the Mi’gmaq. In 2015, 389 people were employed on the site, including 87 from Mi’gmaq communities and 225 from the region. Today, there are 104 Mi’gmaq workers who are or have been employed on the site. This is a unifying project which inspires pride that radiates throughout the region.

Also at the Gala, MU Project Director Terri Lynn Morrison received the award in the Rising Star category for her significant contribution in fostering social acceptability for the project. Proud member of the Listuguj Mi’gmaq community, Terri Lynn brings many qualities to her work, including her ability to manage a thorough hiring program and the implementation of tools to facilitate the integration of workers, her understanding of First Nations realities, her willingness to embrace a long-term vision and the conviction that she is participating to a rallying project. Her contribution is one of the key factors behind the project’s success.

Alongside our laureates, Troy Jerome, Executive Director for the Mi’gmawei Mawiomi Secretariat and Chairman of the MU Board of Directors, had been nomitated as Personality of the Year.

This Gala aims to recognize organizations and individuals who have distinguished themselves within the Quebec wind industry during the past two years.

Photos: Roger Mazerolle – TechnoCentre éolien

The Mesgi'g Ugju's'n wind farm project is located on public lands in the Avignon Regional County Municipality in Quebec.